While Raspberry Pi is nearly synonymous with DIY computer projects or a home server, a mini PC can often do just as well, and ...

I couldn't go more than a day or two without it.

WTF?! There isn't much the Raspberry Pi can't do. The homebrew microcomputer has been used to power devices like ventilators, a tiny TV, an exoskeleton, a mind-reading device, portable game consoles, ...